Effectiveness of Egg Shell Powder on Enhancing the Mechanical Properties of Jute Fiber Mat-Reinforced Epoxy Composite

Due to environmental concerns, researchers are exploring alternatives to synthetic materials, with a focus on developing sustainable and eco-friendly materials. Besides synthetic material, agricultural waste is also threatening for environment and human health. Egg shells are abundantly available byproducts, obtained from local food restaurants, and may be used as an alternative to synthetic fillers. This research focuses on the impact of filler particles on the mechanical properties of the jute fiber-reinforced epoxy composites. The experimental approach involved the fabrication of composites with varying wt.% of Egg Shell Particle (ESP) (0%, 1%, 2%, 4%, 6%, 8%) via the hand layup technique. The tensile and flexural tests were conducted using relevant standards. The results demonstrated tensile and flexural properties of jute fiber reinforced epoxy composites improved with the addition of filler particles. For instance, the sample containing a 1% ESP showed 14.42% and 28.83% improvement in tensile strength and modulus, respectively. However, the flexural test results indicate that 8% ESP increases the flexural strength and modulus by 4.73% and 9.69%, respectively. It is also noted that the tensile and flexural properties of ESP-filled jute fiber reinforced epoxy composites are higher compared to the base, up to 8% filler addition. These findings suggest the potential use of ESP as a filler in enhancing the mechanical properties of jute fiber-reinforced epoxy composite.